Foundation Biological Science
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| LIFEF001 | Life Sciences | 0 | 40 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- LIFEF001
- School
- Life Sciences
- Level
- 0
- Credits
- 40
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module will provide students with an introduction to life at the molecular, cellular, physiological, organismal, population and community levels and provide the background to enable them to enter a range of degree programmes. Topics will include: • Biological molecules • Enzymes • Nucleic acids and the genetic code • Cells and their organelles • Cell division and the cell cycle • Gene sequencing and gene technologies • Exchange and transport systems in plants and animals • Respiration and energy supply • Photosynthesis • Biodiversity • Classification and taxonomy • Microbiology • Pathogens, disease and the immune response • Evolution by natural selection • Genetics and evolution • Ecosystems, human activity and sustainability.
Target Students
Science with Foundation Year students intending to progress to degrees in the Schools of Life Sciences, Biosciences, Pharmacy, Medicine (Cancer Sciences, and Medical Physiology and Therapeutics only), Maths (Natural Sciences only), Chemistry and Psychology.
Classes
This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc.
Assessment
- 15% Coursework 1: Context-based activity, completed in the autumn semester - in-class assessment
- 10% Coursework 2: Individual 5-minute oral presentation completed in the spring semester
- 25% Coursework 3: 2000-word practical report completed in the spring semester
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): ExamSys assessment with multiple choice and short answer questions, to be completed in the May June exam period
Assessed by end of designated period
Educational Aims
The module, aims to complement other material in the Science Foundation course to equip students with little or no background in biology beyond GCSE with the necessary knowledge and understanding to progress to Level 1 of degrees involving biological sciences content.Learning Outcomes
On completing this module students should be able to demonstrate: Knowledge and understanding of:
- The relationship between Biological Sciences and other disciplines;
- An introduction to current trends and developments in Biological sciences;
- Some aspects of the relevance of Biological Sciences to human health and disease and biotechnology;
- An introduction to appropriate terminology, nomenclature and classification;
- Principles underlying the genetics and evolution of living organisms;
- Basics of cell and molecular biology;
- Elements of organism structure, physiology and behaviour;
- An appreciation of the interaction of organisms and their environment;
- Awareness of ethical issues and the impact of advances in biological sciences on society.
Intellectual skills
- Begin to critically analyse and interpret published information and data;
- Acquire information systematically, process it effectively, and draw appropriate conclusions;
- Make and record accurate observations and measurements.
Professional practical skills
- Carry out basic scientific research of published sources and make use of the material so acquired;
- Write and construct scientific documents (e.g. lab reports) using appropriate styles, conventions, and terminology;
- Work safely in the laboratory and follow safety guidelines;
- Undertake practical experimental work using appropriate equipment and instruments;
- Apply basic knowledge of practical approaches and techniques.
Transferable (key) skills
- Communicate effectively in writing;
- Communicate effectively in oral presentation;
- Organise and manage their working time, schedule tasks, and meet deadlines;
- Use and access information and communication technology;
- Reflect on and assess their own progress, strengths and weaknesses;
- Manage and manipulate numerical data;
- Work productively with others.